Thursday, November 8, 2012

What is the theme of Macbeth?

The major theme of the play concerns Macbeth, the play's protagonist and tragic hero. From Macbeth's rise, fall, and destruction, a clear idea develops concerning political ambition: The lust for power--unfettered ambition--leads to the destruction of self and of others. In other words, once Macbeth's ambition is aroused, his overwhelming desire for the throne of Scotland leads to his own destruction as well as to the destruction of many other characters in the play.


As a result of his desire to claim and then retain the crown, Macbeth turns into a liar first, then a murderer, and finally a tyrant under whom Scotland suffers. By the conclusion of the play, Macbeth's actions have resulted directly in the deaths of King Duncan; Banquo; Lady Macduff, her children and servants; young Siward; many soldiers; and finally his own death. Indirectly, Macbeth also plays an important role in his wife's suicide, having been her accomplice, especially in Duncan's murder.

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